While driving along Maine’s coastal Route 1, few properties appear as striking as the Captain Nickels Inn in Searsport. Built in 1874, the inn is named after its first owner and is part of the East Main Street Historic District, a collection of five properties with Italian architectural influences, all built by ship captains.
This newly renovated oceanfront establishment has only nine rooms, but they offer sweeping views of the landscaped lawns stretching down to the rocky beach. Deep soaking tubs, plush linens, and tranquil sitting rooms complement the more luxurious suites. The widow’s walk, accessible from a spiral staircase in the Captain’s Suite, gives guests a panoramic ocean and village view.
The inn’s 1874 Tavern offers craft beers, glasses of wine, and cheese boards that can be taken at the bar or enjoyed on the wrap-around porch. Early risers can relish their morning coffee in the sun-filled breakfast room. And please don’t skip breakfast here—indulging will make your stay all the sweeter. The two-course gourmet breakfast served each morning includes items like bruléed pound cake with macerated berries and fresh cream, pumpkin challah French toast with maple butter, and crispy bacon.
Where to Eat: For a small community (2,645 people at last count), there are many exciting dining options in Searsport. Choices include Cajun-inspired dishes and live music served up at Homeport Inn and Tavern, the art-inspired gastro dive bar Hey Sailor, the tapas and bistro fare at Rio’s Spiked Café, and classic, whole-belly fried Maine clams at Just Barb’s.
What to Do: History buffs should hit the Penobscot Marine Museum, shoppers must visit the Trove boutique and gift shop for local artisans’ work, and walkers should check out the trails in Moose Point State Park.
Captain Nickels Inn
127 E Main St., Searsport
captainnickelsinn.com
